Dean Robert Sommers, 94, passed away on January 30, 2025 at the Mennonite Memorial Home, Bluffton.  Dean was born on November 18, 1930 in Toledo, Ohio to the late Walter and Cora (Gratz) Sommers. At a young age, Dean moved with his parents to Bluffton where he resided most of his life. On March 14, 1953, he married Darlyn Rae Garmatter at the Ebenezer Mennonite Church.  They were married over 63 years and were blessed with four sons. Darlyn preceded Dean in death on March 20, 2016 in Bluffton.

Survivors include two sons, William Dean (Tammy) Sommers of Bluffton, Thomas Ray (Chari Solomon) Sommers of Elida; a daughter-in-law, Debra Sommers of Bluffton; four grandchildren, Jene′ (Collin) Reid, Adel (Christian) Lowery, Eric (Amanda) Sommers, Ryan Sommers; eight great-grandchildren, Madison, Zander, Olivia, Tessa, Candance, Kaylessa, Joanna and Elora.  

Dean is now reunited in Heaven with Darlyn and sons, Daniel Lee Sommers, Roger Wayne Sommers; a grandson, Andrew Dean Sommers and his siblings, Eloise Cloyd-Basinger, Marcile Duehr, Donavin Sommers, Evan Sommers, Clyde Sommers and Wayne Sommers.

Dean graduated from Bluffton High School in 1949. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1950, serving on the USS Fechteler (DD-870) during the Korean War until 1952.  While on maneuvers, Dean was injured and received fractures in both of his hands. After returning home, Dean worked at Triplett Corporation, Ex-Cello Corporation and then Pure-Pak Inc.  He enjoyed his work constructing electrical and mechanical assemblies.

Dean loved and enjoyed vocal music, singing in the SPEBSQSA Barbershop Quartet and with the Ebenezer Mennonite Church choir and in small groups for many years. His favorite songs were hymns of the Christian faith. He also blessed residents while at the Mennonite Home by singing the Doxology for each meal. Dean is now with Jesus, singing and praising him in Heaven. 

Dean's services will begin at 11:00 a.m., Monday, February 3, 2025 at Ebenezer Mennonite Church, Bluffton with Pastors Jim King and David Glick officiating. Burial will be in Ebenezer Mennonite Cemetery following the service where military honors will be provided. Visitation will be Sunday, February 2, 2025 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services, Bluffton and one hour prior to the service at the church.  

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ebenezer Mennonite Church.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com/